A local company is turning a close call into an opportunity to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

"Taking something that almost went bad, into something good," SWM's Denis Magotiaux explains.

Earlier this month, a truck driver for SWM in Winkler nearly collided with a cyclist in the early morning hours. The company then decided to hand out 75 high visibility vests, free, to anyone walking or biking to work in the region.

Anyone who would like a vest is welcome to stop by SWM starting on Monday, April 15.

However, Magotiaux also issued a challenge to Winkler businesses to consider their employees' safety when travelling to work.

"I know that most places have stringent safety rules at work, but you have to get them to work and home again," Magotiaux says. "If you know their cycling or walking and they don't have high visibility clothing then let's be proactive as companies and make sure they get home safe."

Schweitzer-Mauduit International is located at 340 Airport Dr. in Winkler.